Kitui South is witnessing a significant political shift, with opinion polls conducted by a team associated with MP Rachael Kaki Nyamai indicating a drop in her popularity among constituents. The polls suggest that Gladys Mami Kivoto, the Chief Officer for Agriculture under Kitui County’s government, could emerge as the preferred candidate if elections were held today.
Kivoto, a seasoned accountant and a two-term Chief Officer serving under Governor Julius Malombe, has gained traction for her transformative leadership and administrative expertise. Her potential candidacy for the Kitui South parliamentary seat in 2027 has sparked widespread anticipation, with many voters expressing confidence in her ability to address the region’s pressing challenges.
The declining support for MP Kaki Nyamai has been attributed to allegations of voter intimidation, misuse of the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF), and perceived mismanagement of bursaries. Constituents have criticized her for prioritizing teachers and chiefs in bursary allocations, allegedly neglecting needy students and vulnerable households.
Kivoto’s supporters praise her for her dedication to agricultural development and her collaborative approach to governance. They believe her track record in the county government positions her as a transformative leader capable of revitalizing Kitui South’s development agenda.
As the 2027 elections draw nearer, the political landscape in Kitui South is likely to intensify, with both leaders vying for the trust and support of voters. The emerging popularity of Gladys Mami Kivoto signals a potential shake-up in the constituency’s leadership, reflecting the electorate’s demand for accountability and effective representation.
Only time will tell if Kivoto’s rising momentum will translate into a decisive victory or if MP Kaki Nyamai can regain the trust of her constituents.
